Cost To Powder Coat Bicycle Frame
Looking forward to giving your old buddy a complete makeover? Then you have plenty of options to choose from. Painting, spraying, powder coating, etc., are some most common methods of giving bike frames a new look.
Among all these options, most bikers prefer powder coating as it’s more elegant, longer-lasting, and eco-friendly. If you’re thinking of powder coating your bike frame, you probably want to know what’s the cost to powder coat bicycle frame.
Well, the cost will vary from $100 to $600 depending on a bunch of factors. Let’s discuss the related circumstances and determine how much you need to spend to give your two-wheeler a sleek appearance.
Estimated Cost of Powder Coating A Bicycle Frame
First, let’s see how the powder coating is done on a metal frame. In this process, the existing paint is removed from the bike.
The frame then undergoes sandblasting to prepare the surface for coating. Next, one or two layers of powder coat are applied. Finally, it is cured at 400 degrees Fahrenheit in an oven.
The cost of the overall process depends on the condition of your existing paint, whether it’s sandblasted or not, the frame, the number of layers, the color coat, and the shop’s quality.
So, the cost can be anywhere between $100 and $600. On average, for a primary coating in a regular shop, you only need to spend $100 to $200.
Here’s what makes a difference in the price range-
1. Color And Condition
You need to pay less for basic RAL colors. Also, a clear coat is really cheap. Dormant and exotic colors often cost more. And black coating is one of the most expensive out there.
The price also depends on the condition of the metal frame. If your bike frame has chips, dents, and other deformation, it needs to be fixed first, and you need to pay some extra for this.
2. Number of Layers
Of course, one powder coat will cost way less than a double or triple powder coat. Typically, one layer is enough for long-lasting protection. But if you want more layers, be ready to spend more.
Apart from that, the overall cost depends on whether you’re using two- or one-stage colors. Two-stage colors will be expensive.
3. Shop Quality
Not all local shops can perfectly coat bike frames. Some industrial units use better tools and technology to provide the perfect color and consistency. Hence, these units cost more for powder coating bike frames.
On the other hand, your local garage will be the cheapest option, although it can’t guarantee the quality of the coat.
How Much Does it Cost to Bleed Bike Brakes?
When it comes to maintaining your bike brakes, knowing the cost to bleed your bike brakes correctly is crucial. While prices can vary, on average, professional bike shops charge around $50 to $100 for this service. However, with the right tools and guidance, you can potentially save money by bleeding your bike brakes yourself.
Does the Thickness of a Bicycle Frame Tube Affect the Cost of Powder Coating?
The cost of powder coating for a bicycle frame depends on various factors, including the thickness of the frame tube. Bicycle frame tube thickness explained: Thicker frame tubes often require more powder coating material, resulting in higher costs. Additionally, thicker tubes might require additional preparation or specialized techniques, leading to increased expenses. Therefore, bicycle frame tube thickness is a significant aspect to consider when determining the cost of powder coating.
How to Prepare The Bike for Powder Coating?
You can take your bike directly to the garage for powder coating. But making some necessary preparations will help you to cut down some costs and time. Here’s what you can do before going to the shop-
- First, disassemble the frame set of your bike. Remove the axles, bearings, seat post, and bearing cups
- If any plastic or rubber remains attached to the frame, it will melt during the curing process. So, make sure to remove the plastic reflectors from the pedals and the nylon washers from the brake levers
- Take off all the screws, nuts, and bolts attached to the frame. It’s better if you can replace them with new ones
- Avoid sandblasting the frame yourself if you have no previous experience
Wrapping Up!
So, there you have the cost to powder coat bicycle frame. The cheapest option will be a clear, one-layer coat at your local garage. If you want something more professional and fancier, the price will keep getting higher. Try to prepare the bike first to make things easier for the mechanic.